World Darts Championship Under Way at Alexandra Palace

The World Darts Championship, one of the most exciting sporting events, will be held again at Alexandra Palace in north London.

The 2025–2026 competition is expected to have a larger field of 128 participants, which shows how the sport is growing around the world. The prize money also shows that darts is becoming a major professional sport. The fact that Ally Pally already has thousands of fans makes the sport even more like a carnival.

The young star's calmness, ability to score, and brave performances last year amazed the crowd. He is one of the top candidates to win the Sid Waddell Trophy again this year.

Littler has played down the pressure, insisting his focus remains on taking each match as it comes. “This tournament is tough from the first round,” he said ahead of the event. “Everyone here has earned their place, and you can’t afford to look too far ahead.”

The championship has already delivered drama in its opening sessions, with early shocks and closely fought matches reminding fans just how unforgiving the format can be. Seeded players face dangerous opponents from the very start, and the longer format means consistency and mental strength are just as important as scoring ability.

Alongside Littler, established names such as Michael van Gerwen, Gerwyn Price and former champions from across the globe are bidding to make deep runs, while a new generation of players hope to announce themselves on darts’ biggest stage.

Organisers say the expanded field has helped bring fresh stories and greater international representation to the competition. “The depth of talent in the game right now is incredible,” a PDC spokesperson said. “That’s what makes this championship so special.”

Away from the oche, Alexandra Palace has once again become a festive meeting point for fans, with colourful costumes, loud singalongs and packed evening sessions adding to the unique appeal of the event.

Broadcast to millions worldwide, the World Darts Championship continues to be one of the highlights of the sporting winter, blending elite competition with a distinctive atmosphere few events can match.

As the tournament gathers pace, anticipation is building over whether Luke Littler can defend his crown — or whether a new name will emerge to steal the spotlight under the bright lights of Ally Pally.